Reference News Network, March 17 report: Singapore's Strait Times website published an article titled "Dirty Toilets, Rude Behavior: Old Stereotypes to Face When Traveling to China" by Karen T. The article is translated as follows:

One of the earliest impressions I had of China during my growth was its toilets. I had heard stories about Chinese toilets from the older generation of my relatives and friends, which were the most "unforgettable" parts of their travels. In addition, there were warnings about smog, rumors that locals liked to spit on the ground, crowded and chaotic crowds, and a lack of queueing awareness among the people.

After 20 years, some of these stereotypes still remain, and even some new ones have emerged.

Some people believe that it is not easy for foreign tourists to travel in China. Language barriers are difficult to overcome, and unfamiliar applications and digital platforms make it hard for foreign tourists to move around in this country.

Although China's soft power is becoming more evident in daily life, this sense of disharmony is still hard to shake off.

But when I traveled to Shenzhen, it was this trip that began to break down many of my old prejudices.

The first surprise was the air. I had expected a hazy day with smog, but when I arrived, it was a clear sky and bright sunshine, with skyscrapers' glass facades shining in the sunlight. The city's permeable pavement attracted me. This kind of pavement can collect rainwater, reduce flood risks, and recycle water, showing the progress of urban planning in this small detail.

Then came the impact of technology. China's transition to a cashless payment system is so comprehensive that even the tiniest street vendors accept digital payments.

China has the world's largest high-speed rail network, with its scale and efficiency unmatched. Train stations are high-end, clean, and orderly, with trains entering and exiting in an orderly manner, and the timing is impeccable.

My travels in other parts of China were also full of surprises.

As a travel writer, I have experienced warmth in many places, but in China, I met the most sincere and hospitable people.

At a wedding banquet in China, the bride's family took great care of me as a foreigner, making sure I ate well, drank well, and had a good time.

When I was at a loss for the first time on the high-speed train, a local person accompanied me through the station, confirmed that I boarded the correct carriage, and didn't miss the high-speed train.

Just like in any other place in the world, a friendly smile and polite greeting can eliminate the so-called barriers.

In fact, in recent years, China's popularity as a tourist destination has continued to rise. Based on user transaction data and user interviews, the multi-currency travel wallet YouTrip concluded that China will replace Japan as the preferred travel destination for Singaporeans in June 2025.

In the past two years, I have visited different regions of China, including Shanghai, Chengdu, and Lijiang. I realized that we should embrace China with an open mind, just like we do with other tourist destinations.

Perhaps it's time to plan a trip to China. What you see in China may be completely different from what you imagine—just like what I discovered, which may be the very meaning of this journey. (Translated by Wenyi)

Original: toutiao.com/article/7618036066590769699/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.